Guapura 101: The Importance of Sunscreen

Okay everyone, just because it’s no longer summer doesn’t mean you should stop wearing sunblock.  According to the Centers for Disease Control, Latinos have the second highest rates for melanoma of the skin — just behind white people.  Yes, the SECOND highest, so just because you’re “swarthy,” it doesn’t mean you can skimp on the sunscreen.

You’re supposed to wear at least SPF 15 everyday, even in the winter, or cover up and stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.  Now we (and I who love a summer tan) realize that’s not always possible, but there’s a whole bunch of information available at the Skin Cancer Foundation website.

Here are some basic prevention guidelines:

• Seek the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
• Do not burn.
• Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths.
• Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day.
• Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
• Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months.
• Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.
• See your physician every year for a professional skin exam.